US Flu Activity Shows Slight Decline But Remains Widespread
Health officials report a small decrease in flu activity across the United States following weeks of intense spread. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new data showing at least 18 million Americans have fallen ill with influenza during the 2025–26 season. This respiratory virus has caused approximately 230,000 hospitalizations and 9,300 deaths so far.
Current State of Flu Activity
Fourteen states continue to report very high levels of flu-like illness according to recent reports. Another nineteen states are experiencing high activity levels. The number of states reporting high flu activity has decreased from 44 to 36 in recent weeks.
Recent government data indicates several measures of flu activity have declined for two consecutive weeks. Hospitalizations have shown a notable drop, while visits to medical offices for flu-like illness have decreased slightly but significantly.
Pediatric Cases Raise Concern
In the week ending January 10, health officials recorded at least 15 flu-associated deaths among children. This brings the total pediatric toll to 32 deaths this season. Last season saw a record 289 children die from influenza, the highest number since the CDC began tracking pediatric flu deaths in 2004.
Among children whose vaccination status is known, approximately 90% of deaths occurred in those not fully vaccinated against influenza. This statistic highlights the importance of vaccination for younger populations.
Experts Urge Continued Caution
Medical experts warn that a decline in certain indicators does not necessarily mean the flu season has peaked. Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious diseases specialist at Vanderbilt University, explained the pattern seen in previous seasons.
"We've had other seasons where we've had a peak, it's gone down, but we've nonetheless had a prolonged season," Schaffner stated. "Most of us are crossing our fingers, but I don't think we can rely on the concept that flu is abating very early this year."
H3N2 Dominance and Vaccine Concerns
The current flu season has been dominated by the influenza A H3N2 virus. This particular subtype has historically been associated with more severe illness, especially among older adults and young children.
Genetic analysis reveals that the vast majority of circulating H3N2 viruses belong to a variant known as subclade K. This variant differs from the strain targeted by this year's vaccine, potentially reducing vaccine effectiveness against infection. However, vaccination still provides important protection against severe disease and complications.
Understanding Influenza
Influenza, commonly called flu, represents a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads rapidly during winter months. Symptoms typically appear suddenly and can include:
- Fever and chills
- Cough and sore throat
- Body aches and headaches
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
Children often experience additional symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Not all infected individuals develop fever, making early detection more challenging in some cases.
Vulnerable Populations and Complications
While many people recover from influenza within days, the virus can trigger serious complications. These include pneumonia and worsening of existing health conditions. Health authorities identify several groups as particularly vulnerable to severe illness:
- Adults aged 65 and older
- Pregnant women
- Children under five years, especially those below two
- People with chronic diseases including asthma, diabetes, and heart conditions
Vaccination Remains Critical
Doctors continue urging all Americans aged six months and older to get vaccinated against influenza. Dr. Aaron Milstone, pediatric director of infection prevention at Johns Hopkins Health System, emphasized the ongoing importance of vaccination.
"We're still in the thick of flu season, so it's not too late to get your flu shot," Milstone stated. "The goal of the flu vaccine is really to keep people out of the hospital and to keep them alive... it's not 100% effective at preventing infection, but hopefully it prevents complications that can lead to hospitalization or death."
Broader Respiratory Virus Context
COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have not experienced large surges during the same period as the flu outbreak. The CDC currently describes the overall respiratory virus season as moderate in intensity.
Health officials maintain that while some indicators show improvement, the flu season remains active and potentially dangerous. They recommend continued preventive measures including vaccination, hand hygiene, and staying home when sick to limit further spread.
